July 28, 2009

Aloha kakou!
In today’s newsletter:

• This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis - Kamuela Kahoano
• Natalie Ai Kamauu on Hawaiian Concert Guide
• La’ie Days – Weldon Kekauoha (O’ahu)
• Jerry Santos – San Francisco
• Cecilio and Kapono Tour
• Billy V/Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (IZ)
• "MC Lina Girl, Beat Master Davey & Carlton V"

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This week’s guest on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis is Kamuela Kahoano.

Son of long-time radio and TV personality Kimo Kahoano, Kamuela began playing the ‘ukulele at age 6. He subsequently learned other instruments, including guitar. Kamuela spent much of his childhood mastering the compositional techniques of artists like Ka’au Krater Boys, Dave Matthews, U2, the Beatles, Bob Marley, and countless others. His performances feature a wide variety of genres, from traditional Hawaiian to folk, reggae/ska, rock, pop, R&B and more. He’s also known for his wit and spontaneous banter on stage.

A self-taught composer until age 20, Kamuela entered the College of Music Composition at the University of Hawaii at Manoa on scholarship and with no prior training. Less than 3 years later he had evolved into a classical music theory buff. He also entered the University of Hawaii Chamber and Symphony Choirs, and had completed four large-scale symphonic works by age 23. He has composed over 200 songs, is the creator of Green Light Go/Kahoano Productions company, and his first Green Light Go CD was nominated for a 2007 Na Hoku Hanohano Award in the Best Rock Album category.

You can find Kamuela playing nightly at a variety of venues in the Waikiki area, either as a solo artist, with a band, or with Hawai’i Music Award winner and Na Hoku nominee Tahiti Rey. He’s also in demand as a performer at weddings! When he’s not performing or composing, his production company keeps him busy. Here’s an example of a great music video he produced (and performs in) to promote summer fun for keiki in Hawai’i.

And here he is performing his original song “Manalani” at the Kani Ka Pila Grille.

(Fun fact: one of Kamuela’s brothers is Ikaika Kahoano, an original member of the group O-Town, from the first season of MTV’s “Making the Band.” He makes a brief appearance in the “Lenny and the SKIM” video above.)

Join host Tony Solis for Pakele Live! this Thursday, July 30, from 6-8 p.m. HST in the Pakele Lounge at the Ala Moana Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). It’s free, all ages are welcome, and free parking is available next door at Ala Moana Shopping Center. (The hotel no longer serves food, but drinks are available for purchase.)

You may also watch live online at: http://www.pakelelive.com/

Those in Japan can watch at: http://www.j-wave.co.jp/

You may email the show at pakele@lava.net

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Natalie Ai Kamauu, the 2009 Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner for Female Vocalist, did a wonderful, one hour interview with Piko and Puni on Hawaiian Concert Guide Sunday night. (Those of us who listened live had a great time in the HCG chat room!) Nat tells wonderful stories, both funny and poignant, but during this interview (conducted by phone), she alternated between accidentally hitting the “mute” button on her phone and doing something that caused a loud screeching noise – which had us all laughing so hard we were crying (and made for several hilarious comments in the chat room, by one listener in particular…) If you have a moment, the show is well worth listening to – it was one of the best HCG interviews ever! Here’s the link to the podcast.
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The La’ie Days Summer Bash will be held Friday, July 31 from 6-10 pm at La’ie Shopping Center. This free, annual event features entertainment, carnival rides, and more. One of this year’s featured performers is multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner Weldon Kekauoha, who is scheduled to perform from 7-8 pm.


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Earlier this year, I mentioned that Jerry Santos (founder of Olomana) would be making a rare concert appearance in San Francisco. Tickets are now on sale! Presented by Kumu Hula Patrick Makuakāne & Nā Lei Hulu I Ka Wēkiu, the concerts (with hula) take place at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre Saturday, October 17 (8pm) and Sunday, October 18 (2pm). Tickets are $35/$40 reserved, and are available at City Box Office.
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Cecilio & Kapono have announced the tour dates and venues for the C&K Tour 2009. They recently spent several days in Japan, and will begin the U.S. portion of tour with three dates at the Hawai’i Theater August 27-29. They then move to the mainland to play Colorado, Oregon, California and Nevada, with more cities to be added. See their website for specific dates/venues.
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Several days ago, our own Billy V (Hawaiian 105 KINE, KGMB9 Sunrise, Voice of UH Athletics, and MC of the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards and a good portion of all the other events happening on O’ahu) posted a video taken from a very special moment in Hawaiian music. In case you didn’t see the post on Twitter or Facebook (or the repost by many other people), here is the link. And here is the comment Billy posted with the video:

"OK people. I know it’s Sunday, time to rejoice and rest, but this video going make you cry and smile with love and pride. Found this when one of my "friends" updated their status - I was working the Na Hoku Hanohano Award this special night while Israel Kamakawiwo’ole was singing, and was joined by the Makaha Sons Moon, John & Jerome. It’s one of the defining moments of Hawn Music, of Ho’oponopono..."

Billy expressed concern that this video might not be available much longer, as he’d noticed that others of Israel’s (and others in Hawaiian music) that had been part of any live television broadcast had been taken down. (Warning: have tissue available when you view it! Although you may have seen it before, it never fails to touch your heart.)
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To lighten things back up a bit, here’s a hilarious video of “MC Lina Girl, Beat Master Davey & Carlton V” (a.k.a. radio hosts Lina Girl, Davey D and Billy V), from last weekend’s Birthday Bash here in Hawai’i (kala mai - I don’t know if you can view the video if you don’t have a Facebook account).
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Pau for now! E malama pono a hui hou!

July 21, 2009

Aloha kakou!
In today’s newsletter:

• This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis - Na Palapalai
• Halau o Keikiali’i-Sacramento Ho’ike
• Kuo/Pahinui/Martin tour – CA
• New Children’s Book
• New CDs - Amy Hanaiali’i and Keli’i Kaneali’i
• San Francisco Aloha Festival
• Mango Festival – Big Island
• Kaua’i Music Festival concert

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This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis we are pleased to host the award-winning trio Na Palapalai!


Na Palapalai was formed in 1995 by Kehau Tamure and Kuana Torres Kahele in their hometown of Hilo, Hawai’i. Raised around traditional Hawaiian music, they polished their skills playing local shows and backyard pa’inas. After briefly teaming with Wailau Ryder and Akoni Malacas in a group named “Akoni and Da Palapalai Patch,” Kuana and Kehau, along with new member Keao Costa, re-formed Na Palapalai.

The trio, with Keao on bass, Kehau on ‘ukulele, and Kuana on guitar, brought a raw energy and enthusiasm to traditional Hawaiian music. Of the six Na Hoku Hanohano Award nominations they received for their 2003 debut album “Makani ‘Olu’olu,” they won five. Two more albums followed: 2005’s “Ke’ala Beauty,” nominated for five Na Hoku Awards (of which they took home two), and 2006’s “Ka Pua Hae Hawai’i,” nominated for seven Na Hoku Awards. All three albums were nominated in the categories of Haku Mele and Hawaiian Language Performance, among others. Nominees in these two categories are subject to very high standards, and unlike all but the most technical categories (such as engineering, etc.), these categories are not voted on by the general voting membership of the Academy – they are voted on by specialists in the field. Thus, a nomination in the coveted Haku Mele and Hawaiian Language Performance categories is a distinct honor, and Na Palapalai’s debut release won in both categories!

In addition to the 18 Hoku nominations and seven wins, all three of the group’s albums have become veritable soundtracks for hula halaus worldwide. Valued for their original compositions and three-part falsetto harmonies, the band has made a significant contribution to the legacy that is Hawaiian music.

2009 has brought the evolution of Na Palapalai full circle. The band, once again comprised of Kehau and Kuana, continues to deliver powerhouse performances worldwide and remains a trendsetter in leo ki’eki’e, the Hawaiian falsetto sound. Na Palapalai’s long-anticipated 4th release is due out later this year.

Join host Tony Solis for Pakele Live! this Thursday, July 23, from 6-8 p.m. HST in the Pakele Lounge at the Ala Moana Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). It’s free, all ages are welcome, and free parking is available next door at Ala Moana Shopping Center. Drinks are available for purchase (kala mai - the hotel is no longer serving food).

You may also watch live online at: http://www.pakelelive.com/
Those in Japan can watch at: http://www.j-wave.co.jp/

You may email the show at pakele@lava.net
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Halau o Keikiali’i-Sacramento is holding a ho’ike July 25 from noon to 4 pm at the Dance 2D Rhythm Studio in Elk Grove. Admission is $10 (free for children 4 yrs and under), and includes food. There will be hula, vendors, and games. Call (916) 271-5060 for info.
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George Kuo, Martin Pahinui and Aaron Mahi continue to add dates/venues to their upcoming CA tour. Here’s the most recent information I have:

Tues. August 11, Little Fox Theatre, Redwood City, 8 pm, 21+ only, tickets $17 advance, $19 door, Call 650-369-4119

Weds. August 12, Don Quixote's (under 21 w/parent), Santa Cruz, 7:30 pm, tickets $15 advance, $17 door

Thurs. August 13, Temple Bar, Berkeley, 5:30 pm, call 510-524-6403

Fri. August 14, Thockmorton Theatre, Mill Valley, 8 pm, Call 415-383-9600

Sat. August 15, Oaksong Music Society, Oak Run, 7:30 pm, Call 530-223-2040

Sun. August 29, Shannon Center - Whittier College (Aloha Series), 3 pm and 8 pm
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Children’s book author Dr. Carolan (Goodnight Hawaiian Moon, Where Are My Slippers) has released another book entitled A President from Hawai’i . I recently spent time at a local bookstore with Dr. Carolan, his wife (and the book’s illustrator) Joanna Carolan, and Amy Hanaiali’i and Keli’i Kaneali’i (co-founder of the group HAPA), who contributed music to accompany the book. Amy and Dr. Carolan both read from the book, while Keli’i played music in the background – what a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

An entertaining yet informative blend of facts about Hawai’i and tidbits about our new President, A President from Hawai’i includes photographs, illustrations, and a CD. The CD begins with an oli (chant), then Amy narrates the book while Keli’i plays background music. At the conclusion of the narration there is another oli, followed by Amy singing “These Islands” in both English and Hawaiian. (Additional musicians for “These Islands” include Matt Catingub, Jeff Peterson, Chino Montero and Steve Jones.)

The book begins by informing young readers that President Obama was born in Hawai’i (the first President to be born here), and poses the question, “Will this help him to be a good President?” It talks about life in Hawai’i, explains some of the customs (“What does it mean to give a flower lei?”) and language (“Mahalo is one of the first words we are taught”) and a bit of history. Sprinkled throughout are quotes from President Obama (“…we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.”)


Although this is a children’s book (it is not political!), I enjoyed it, too! To learn more, listen to a sample of Amy’s narration, or order the book, go to the Banana Patch Press website.



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Speaking of Amy and Keli’i, both have new albums coming out next month! “Amy Hanaiali’i, Friends and Family of Hawai’i” features duets with a variety of people, including brother Eric Gilliom, Keali’i Reichel, Willie Nelson, and many more. Keli’i’s album “Kaua’i” is his debut solo release and contains five original songs, as well as his take on some classic Hawaiian songs. Both albums will be released August 25.
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Just a reminder – the 15th Annual San Francisco Aloha Festival is coming up August 1 and 2 on the parade grounds at the Presidio . As always, the festival is FREE, and there will be plenty of ono Hawaiian grinds (over a dozen food booths), LOTS of vendors (over SIX DOZEN!), hula, and nonstop live music. A special treat this year – Mike Keale (nephew of Uncle Moe Keale, cousin of Bruddah Iz) moved to the Sacramento area earlier this year (sniffle – we miss him!), and will be performing at the Aloha Festival on Saturday at 1:30. Others on the schedule include Faith Ako (12:30 Sunday), Ho’omana (2:30 Sunday), and Kumu Hula Mark Keali’i Ho’omalu’s Academy of Hawaiian Arts performing a hula kahiko (4 pm Sunday). For directions, information on parking, FAQ, and more, visit the Pacific Islanders Cultural Association website.
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The 1st Annual Mango Festival takes place August 1 at Keauhou Beach Resort’s Royal Garden, Kailua-Kona (Big Island). Tickets are $10.






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The lineup for this year’s Kauai Music Festival has been announced, and includes performances by Jake Shimabukuro, Kenneth Makuakane, Charles Brotman & Kohala, Keale, John Keawe, and Paula Fuga with Mike Love. The concert takes place Friday, July 31, 7 - 10PM at the Hilton Kauai Beach Resort in Lihu'e. Tickets are $25 advance, $30 door. Click here for more info!
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Please remember that the events listed here are just a sampling of what’s going on, and all events are subject to change or cancellation. It’s always wise to confirm an event in advance, especially if you’re traveling from out of town.

Pau for now – e malama pono a hui hou!

July 14, 2009

Aloha kakou!
In today’s newsletter:

• This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis – Kuhio and Ka Hula O Ululani, Aunty Diana Aki, and Simple Souls
• Jeff Peterson and Jim Kimo West – Playa Del Rey, CA
• Dennis Kamakahi – congratulations!
• Keiki Hula (O’ahu)
• Prince Lot Hula Festival (O’ahu)
• George Na`ope Kāne Hula Festival (Modesto, CA)
• Banana Hut, Eureka, CA
• Hawaiian conference and concert - Chicago

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This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis we see the return of Kuhio performing with members of the Nagoya portion of Ka Hula O Ululani, as well as Aunty Diana Aki, and Simple Souls.


Regular Pakele Live viewers might remember that Ka Hula O Ululani (under the direction of Kumu Hula Ululani Duncan) made an appearance last November – however the dancers were from the halau’s Fukuoka (Japan) chapter. Those dancing this time will be from the halau’s chapter in Nagoya. (Kumu Ululani's students number well over a 1,000 combined in the Nagoya and Fukuoka area!) They are scheduled to perform first.


Next up will be the return of musician, singer, composer, Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner and the "Songbird of Miloli'i," Aunty Diana Aki. Aunty made an appearance on Pakele Live last October while celebrating the release of “Kalihi” - her first CD in 15 years!

To round out the evening, we have the first-ever appearance of Simple Souls, an acoustic duo made up of Jenn “JRoQ Wright (MighTy J, PALI, Kanalo, She Rocks), and Zaysha Labrador (Kanalo, She Rocks).

Join host Tony Solis for Pakele Live! this Thursday, July 16 from 6-8 p.m. HST at the Pakele Lounge in the Ala Moana Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). It’s free, and free parking is available next door at Ala Moana shopping center. Drinks are available for purchase, (kala mai - the hotel is no longer serving food).

You may also watch live online. Those in Japan can watch here.
You may email the show at pakele@lava.net
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Southern California slack key guitar fans won’t want to miss Grammy and Na Hoku Hanohano award winner Jeff Peterson (pictured here with fellow 2009 Na Hoku winners Ledward Kaapana and Steve Jones) and Na Hoku nominee Jim Kimo West in concert Friday July 17! They’ll be performing at Trilogy Guitars in Playa Del Rey at 8pm. For reservations call (310) 305-7577
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Congratulations to Rev. Dennis Kamakahi who will be inducted into the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame for 2009. (The ceremonies will be held in September.) September will be a big month for Dennis – in addition to his Hall of Fame honors, his first grandchild (David and Lisa Kamakahi’s daughter) is due September 12!

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The 34th annual Queen Lili'uokalani Keiki Hula Competition (“Keiki Hula,” for short) takes place July 16-18 at the Neal Blaisdell Center in Honolulu. Admission is $13 for adults and $10 for children 4-12 for reserved seats and $10 for all general seats. You can purchase tickets at the Blaisdell Center Box Office, or call Ticket master at 1-877-750-4400 (or online at ticketmaster.com.)

The performances of all of the groups and soloists will be broadcast by KITV 4 Island Television on July 31 and Aug. 1, from 7-10 pm HST each night. Friday will feature hula kahiko, and Saturday will feature hula auana. (Kala mai – I don’t know if the station will also broadcast it online.)
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And still more hula! The 32nd annual Prince Lot Hula Festival takes place on July 18 from 9am – 4 pm at Moanalua Gardens in Honolulu. This is the largest non-competitive hula festival in the Hawaii. There is a $5 donation for admission.


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Hula on the mainland – the 5th annual George Na`ope Kāne Hula Festival and 2nd annual Keiki Hula Competition will take place August 8-9 at the Modesto Centre Plaza in Modesto, CA. This is the only keiki hula competition on the mainland! Advance tickets are available by mail.
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For those near the Eureka, CA area, did you know about the Banana Hut (Hawaiian BBQ restaurant in Redwood Acres? This article caught my eye, primarily due to the mention of the owners having eaten at a "Hawaiian food restaurant in Santa Cruz"… (Timmy! Look what you and Aloha Island Grille inspired in the north state!)

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Chicago, are you ready for a bit of Hawaii to head your way? A three-day Hawaiian conference and a performance at North Central College's Wentz Hall. Among those who will be there are Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner Uluwehi Guerrero, who will teach both hula and ‘ukulele, and the Makaha Sons will be in concert. Click here for more info!
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Pau for now - e malama pono a hui hou!

Support "Kani Ka Pila!"

Aloha kakou!
Your kokua (help, assistance) is needed to keep the Hawaiian music radio show “Kani Ka Pila” from being cut from 3 hours to 2!

This popular show airs every Sunday from 9 am to noon (PST) on KVMR (89.5 fm, Nevada City, CA, and online). Host Michael Keene plays music by a wide variety of artists from both Hawai’i and the mainland – many (if not most) of whom get little to no radio airplay here in Hawai’i, in spite of the high quality of their work and their popularity with fans. (Lack of radio airplay is a common problem for musicians from all genres of music, but even more so in Hawaiian music.)

The show was started over 10 years ago by Rich Shipley, who is also the force behind Hawaiian Rainbow.com. I believe “Kani Ka Pila” started out as a one hour show (with a different name), but the popularity of the Hawaiian music format led to several increases in the allocated time.

The show has steadily increased in popularity over the years, especially once listeners were able to listen from afar via the internet. (I am a regular listener!) In addition to the music, Michael regularly features interviews with musicians and others in the Hawaiian community, including Kumu Hula, lomi lomi massage practitioners, and others such as Big Island Kahuna Haleaka Iolani Pule Dooley (Aunty Aka).

But now the station’s program committee is looking for space to insert a new (pre-recorded, non-Hawaiian) show – and they’ve decided to eliminate one hour of Kani Ka Pila in order to do it. However, the station is accepting public comment – and that’s where you come in! Please continue your support of Hawaiian music by sending an email to the program committee to request that they not reduce Kani Ka Pila’s on-air time! Time is of the essence – your letters or emails must be received by July 22.

Here is a portion of the letter the station just sent out, as well as the email (and snail mail) address to send comments:

“After several months of review, KVMR's Program Committee has made its preliminary schedule change recommendations that you'll find in this email.

Public comment and input will be accepted through Wednesday, July 22nd. You can email your comments to mailto:program@kvmr.org and all members of the PC will also receive the emails. You can also send comments to Program Committee, KVMR, 408 Broad Street, Nevada City CA 95959.

A public input session will also be held with the PC, Program Director Steve Baker and General Manager David Levin on Wednesday, July 22nd, 7pm, Superintendent of Schools Meeting Room, Nevada City Highway at Ridge Road, Grass Valley. The PC will then review all public comments and meet to make final recommendations to the General Manager before month's end for implementation of schedule changes beginning as soon as August 17.

Thanks for your consideration,The Program CommitteeSteve Baker, Catherine Allen, Phyllis Boorinakis, Kim Daniels, Mark Lippmann, Elisa Parker

KVMR PROGRAM COMMITTEE PRELIMINARY PROPOSED SCHEDULE CHANGES, APPROVED BY CONSENSUS JULY 09

Sunday:
7am Miller/Wells as is
9am Kani Ka Pila Hawaiian (less one hour)
11am Cafe'/New Music Series (new)
1pm Blues Spectrum as is "

(etc.)

Many musicians from Hawai’i have reaped the benefits that come with radio airplay on Kani Ka Pila and the few other mainland stations that play Hawaiian music, and those of us who are listeners can’t seem to get enough. Please show your support for shows like this one, and voice your opinion to KVMR’s program directors.

Mahalo for your kokua!

Aloha kakou!
In today’s newsletter:

• This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis - Herb Ohta, Jr., Walt Keale, Jon Yamasato, Jennifer Perri, Brad Kawakami, Kumu Hula Leialoha Lim-Amina, more
• Daniel Ho and Tia Carrere – Los Angeles
• Sean Na'auao - Waianae
• Brittni Paiva, Willie K – Eugene, OR (no, not together!)
• Weldon Kekauoha and more – Kona, HI
• Halau Keali’i O Nalani Ho’ike – Torrance, CA
• Hula Kahiko and more – Kaua’i
• Kawika Alfiche and more – San Francisco
• John Cruz – Sacramento, CA
• So Cal Falsetto Festival – Redondo Beach, CA
• Ho'olaule'a – Lawndale, CA
• Big Island Hawaiian Music Festival – Hilo, HI
• ‘Ukulele Festival reminder – O’ahu
• Hawai’i Performing Arts Festival – Hawai’i Island
• Surf and Music Expo – O’ahu
• Augie T – Oregon and Washington
• Kenneth Makuakane interview
• Kanoe Miller interview

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We have a number of guests this week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis: Herb Ohta, Jr., Walt Keale, Jon Yamasato, Jennifer Perri, Brad Kawakami, Kumu Hula Leialoha Lim-Amina, Ken Lykes & Makke, and more! This is a special show to raise both money and awareness for Chiaki and Kuri Shiozawa, both of whom suffer from a progressive, degenerative, genetic and incurable disease called Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA).

SCA affects the spinal cord and the cerebellum, the area of the brain that controls voluntary motor movement, balance, and muscle tone. Patients lose the ability to control their own movements, including speaking, eating, swallowing, walking, and hand/arm movements. The disease has many sub-types based on the specific gene that is affected. Therefore, the severity and onset age of the disease varies considerably from person to person.

Chiaki and Junko Shiozawa moved to Hawai’i when they noticed their then-5-year-old daughter, Kuri, who suffered from severe asthma, was healthier whenever they vacationed here. Junko, who was a TV reporter and journalist in Japan, found work as a writer for a local paper and Chiaki, a TV producer in Japan, established Hawaii Web TV, a video production business. In 2008 the family received the devastating news that Chiaki, who had been suffering from a number of suspicious symptoms, was afflicted with DRPLA - a severe type of SCA. Unlike most types of SCA, DRPLA affects not only the patient’s motor skills, but also personality, the ability to control emotions, and the general thinking process. It was then discovered that daughter Kuri’s constant health challenges were also due to DRPLA. (DRPLA is a devastating form of SCA in that the age of onset is earlier and more severe with each generation.)

Junko kept the family’s plight to herself for the past year while caring for both Chiaki (who can no longer hold a camera to work) and Kuri (who has difficulty eating, bathing, and sleeping), and running the business – their only source of income. A few friends, who knew nothing of her struggles until recently, are now helping Junko to manage her family and business - but she needs additional assistance.

The goal of this special Pakele Live! is to assist the family monetarily, as the medical expenses are immense and everyday living is difficult without outside help. In addition to local musicians donating their talent and time, KoAloha has donated an ‘ukulele that will be auctioned. Pakele Live’s creator Pali Ka’aihue, of the Hoku Award-winning band PALI, and Tony Solis, the show’s host, co-producer, and director are donating their time and the funds to produce and film this charity event. Hawaiian Moon is donating the matching outfits that the Shiozawa family will wear to the event.

Please join us for this very special Pakele Live! this Thursday, July 9, from 6-8 p.m. in the Pakele Lounge at the Ala Moana Hotel. (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). Free parking is available next door at Ala Moana shopping center. Admission to the show is free, but donations for the family will be accepted. Donations are also being accepted at any Central Pacific Bank branch (information below). You may either walk in or wire transfer funds. (To donate via walk-in - cash or check at ANY BRANCH - please provide the account number and name. To donate via wire transfer, please provide the swift code, routing number, and account number.)

Name of Bank :　Central Pacific Bank
Branch Name :　Waikiki Branch
Branch Number : 006
Branch Address : 105 Uluniu Ave. Honolulu, Hawaii 96815 U.S.A.
Head Office Address : 220 South King St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 U.S.A.
Bank's Call Center : (808) 544-0500
Routing Number : 121301578
Swift Code : CEPBUS77
Account Number : 1001157856
Account Name : Kuri Cri Shiozawa

Those who can’t join us in person may watch live online at: PakeleLive.com
or in Japan at: J-Wave

(If you watch online, don’t forget to email the show at pakele@lava.net to say hi and let us know you’re watching – and from what part of the world!)
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There are lots of events happening this weekend and next! Here’s a partial listing, to help you plan:


Daniel Ho and Tia Carrere will be at the John Lovett Comedy Club at Universal City Walk in Los Angeles on Friday, July 10, 2009 - 8:30pm to perform selections from their new album "He Nani."

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Sean Na'auao is this week’s performer at the Pilila’au Army Rec. Center (85-010 Army Street, Waianae). Saturday July 11 at 7pm. FREE!
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Mele Ohana presents a concert and workshop by Brittni Paiva on Saturday, July 11 in Eugene, Oregon. On August 15 it will be Willie K in Concert for “A Baby Lu`au Hawaiian style”. See their calendar for details!
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On July 11 the Lanihou Center in Kona celebrates its 21st anniversary with a day of FREE family fun. Na Hoku Award Winner Weldon Kekauoha will perform at the event, along with InDeeJanus featuring Na Hoku Award Winner Donald Kaulia, Gene Akamu, Alvin Peller & Wongy. The event starts at 11 am and goes to about 3 pm.

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Halau Keali’i O Nalani's Annual Ho’ike takes place July 11th at 3pm & 7pm at El Camino College (16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, CA). Admission is $15.






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Ka`ie`ie Foundation presents `Aha Hula 2009, a Hula Kahiko Concert by Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai from 3 to 7 pm July 12 at Church of the Pacific, Po`oku, Princeville at Hanalei (Kaua’i).

The Foundation’s Ho`oulu Hawaiian Lecture Series also continues with special presentations on July 24 (free lecture) & July 25 (cultural workshop).

To buy tickets for ‘Aha Hula or to register for the July 25 workshop, click here.
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Join Kawika Alfiche, Halau o Keikiali`i and guests at Peña Pachamama,
1630 Powell Street (Union & Green) in San Francisco on Sunday, July 12 at 7 pm.
This is a fundraiser for Halauaola – go and enjoy live music with Kawika, Lehua and some of the other Kane. There will also be some Bolivian/Latin music by Eddy, Quentin and Gabriel Navia. The food? Grass fed beef, free range chicken, organic veggies – wholesome, delicious South American cuisine. (They also have some vegetarian and Living Food choices.)

Suggested parking: City garage on Vallejo at Powell Vallejo Street Garage…just 2 blocks away. Reasonably priced. Also, the garage next to Peña Pachamama's. The Vallejo street garage closes at 10 PM weekdays and 2 AM Friday and Saturdays. You can find flat rate $5-12 parking at O'Reilley's, Bank of America around the corner, and also on Filbert Street. Or take MUNI lines to within three blocks: 12, 30, 39, 41, 45, or the Powell-Mason Cable Car!
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Coming up July 18th at 7 pm at Borders Sacramento it’s multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner John Cruz! If you know no other song of John’s you surely know “Island Style” (“On the island, we do it island style. From the mountain to the ocean from the windward to the leeward side…”). Borders General Manager Tom Hedtke has been trying to book John for over two years, and John’s schedule finally made it possible! (I mention this frequently, but it bears repeating - there are never fewer than 100 people for the Hawaiian music in-stores at Tom’s Borders, and the count has gone up to over 400 at times. So get there early!) John’s an incredible singer/songwriter and a really nice guy, so don’t miss this chance to see him live – and for free! You can also get your CDs signed afterwards – and his DVD. 2339 Fair Oaks Blvd, in the café.
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Tickets are still available for the 2nd Annual Southern California Aloha Falsetto Festival July 18 at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center (1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd.). Don’t miss Na Hoku Award winner Weldon Kekauoha, Pomaika’i Keawe Lyman (who inherited her late grandmother’s amazing voice – Aunty Genoa Keawe), Uncle Richard Ho’opi’i, and Leokane Pryor, plus an incredible “house band” comprised of Grammy and Na Hoku Award winner Jeff Peterson, Bryan Tolentino and Alika Boy IV. There will also be lots of hula, Hawaiian food and an arts & crafts fair. Tickets are $25 to $75, show times are 2pm & 7pm.
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The Hawaiian Inter-Club Council of Southern California hosts the annual Ho'olaule'a July 18-19 from 10am to 6pm at Alondra Park in Lawndale, CA. There will be continuous Polynesian entertainment, arts & crafts, games, island style food, drawings, and prizes. Free!
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The 20th Annual Big Island Hawaiian Music Festival takes place in Hilo July 18-19 at the East Hawaii Cultural Center, 141 Kalakaua Street.
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Don’t forget, the annual ‘Ukulele Festival takes place here on O’ahu on July 19, in Kapiolani Park. See my June 24 post for details and a link to the festival website!
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The 5th Annual Hawai’i Performing Arts festival takes place throughout the month of July on the Big Island. It features concerts (including Leokane Pryor and Friends), performances and artist events you won't want to miss!
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Mark your calendars for July 31 through August 2! That’s when the Surf and Music Expo takes place at the Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall in Honolulu… Producers Al Simbahon and Clyde Aikau (Eddie’s younger brother) promise a weekend filled with live music (including appearances by Mailani Makainai, Go Jimmy Go, Mana’o Company and more!), an amateur band competition, an indoor surf competition (by video!), vendors offering new and used surfboards and musical instruments of all kinds to buy, sell or trade, surf museum memorabilia, and much, much more! Admission is $10 (General), $8 (Ages 56 and over, Youth ages 7 – 12, and military and dependents). Age 6 and under are free.

(The event schedule will be announced soon!)
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Coming the week of August 20th to 5 million households near L&L's mainland locations in Nevada, Los Angeles, Sacramento, California Bay Area, San Diego, Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington: this flyer containing free food coupons and a chance to win a DVD by comedian Augie T!

Speaking of Augie, he’ll be in Oregon and Washington next month – go see him if you get a chance! (I always have a hard time getting a good photo of Augie when I see him because he makes me laugh so much I can’t hold the camera still! I did manage to get a few good shots of him when he M.C.’d the 4th of July concert at Ala Moana Center – although I have to admit one was posed… taken before the show started!)

Augie T - August 14 OREGON
Redbrick Asian Bar & Grill 1861 NW 188th Avenue Hillsboro, OR 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Tickets: $15.00 (Must be 21 or older) Contact Erlinda Platiro (503)705-2039 or by email at justkawika@live.com

August 15 WASHINGTON
Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center, 400 S 2nd St. Renton, WA. Doors open at 6PM.
For ticket info call (253) 985-3052.
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Na Hoku Hanohano Award winning composer, singer, songwriter, producer (etc.!) Kenneth Makuakane was on KGMB9‘s Sunrise this morning for a story about “Passing on Hawaiian Storytelling Tradition Through Music.” You can watch it here.
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Kaukini Norm of KAPU FM in Watsonville, CA recently did a wonderful interview with Kanoe Miller. Listen to it here.
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Pau for now! E malama pono a hui hou!

July 1, 2009

Aloha kakou!
In this week’s newsletter:

• This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis - Keahi Conjugacion
• Faith Ako in concert – Reno
• Some 4th of July events in Hawai’i
• New CD by Mailani Makainai
• Hawai'i Volcanoes' 29th Annual Cultural Festival
• Hawaiian Cultural Center in Midvale, Utah
• Kona Kitchen Restaurant, Seattle
• Makana/slack key article

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This week’s guest on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis is Keahi Conjugacion. A Grammy-nominated international jazz recording artist, Keahi is a member of the well-known Conjugacion family (Tony C and Brother Noland). Growing up, her home was filled with music and dance, and at a young age Keahi fell in love with the sounds of Dinah Washington and other great jazz vocalists like Sarah Vaughn, Billy Holiday, Carmen McRae, Etta James, and Phyllis Hyman.

She started her singing career at the age of 17, singing with local Top 40 and R&B bands and recording as a background vocalist. In an effort to expand her musical horizons, she moved to Seattle, where she began appearing and recording as a jazz artist, and performed with some of the Northwest's finest jazz musicians. She returned to Hawai’i for a time, but in 2003, Keahi was asked to be a part of “Hawai'i's Legends” and to perform in New York City's Carnegie Hall. During her visit to New York she also performed in some of Harlem's legendary clubs. Inspired by the response of the audiences there, she moved to New York in 2004 and lived there for one year, performing in many of the clubs in Harlem and the West Village.

Keahi has a distinct musical personality: a true jazz singer's spontaneity and freedom mixed with a reverence for the music of Hawai`i and the bluesy stylings of the classic singers she loves so much. Her love for Hawaiian music can be heard in the way she sings a lyric and in her sensitivity to the nuances of the Hawaiian language.

Please join host Tony Solis for Pakele Live! this Thursday, July 2 from 6-8 p.m. HST at the Pakele Lounge in the Ala Moana Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). It’s free, and free parking is available next door at Ala Moana shopping center. Drinks are available for purchase, but as I’ve mentioned previously, the hotel is no longer serving food.

You may also watch live online. Those in Japan can watch on J-WAVE.

(If you watch online, don’t forget to email the show at pakele@lava.net to say hi and let us know you’re watching – and from what part of the world!)
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Faith Ako will be in concert at Trader Dick’s Lounge in John Ascuaga’s Nugget, Reno, from Thursday, July 2 through Saturday, July 4, 8-11 pm.
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There are lots of events happening in Hawai’i this 4th of July weekend! Here are a few:

O’ahu

Aloha Tower Marketplace (July 3)

Atrium Stage (free)
5:00 p.m. Ukulele performance by TJ & Micah and KINE Radio giveaway
6:00 p.m. “Red, White and Blue Jeans” Fashion Show by New Media Productions
Harbor Fireworks Stage, Pier 9 (free)
7:00 p.m. Pacific Fleet Band
8:00 p.m. HAPA concert
8:45 p.m. Hawaii Explosives and Pyrotechnics Fireworks Show

Throughout Aloha Tower Marketplace (free)
5 – 9 p.m. Juggler on stilts, patriotic hair art and temporary tattoos, spin art, voter registration and other activities

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant 9 p.m. 10 Feet
Chai’s Island Bistro 7 – 8 p.m. Willie K
Don Ho’s Island Grill 5:30 – 8 p.m. Mihana Souza (From 6:30 p.m. BBQ Buffet on the Harbor) Bikini Cantina 9 p.m. Johnny Rock Society

For more information, call (808) 566-2337
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Ala Moana Center 4th of July Entertainment Schedule (fireworks start at 8:30 pm at Magic Island… many thousands of people go to this one, so get there EARLY! EARLY! EARLY!):

Centerstage
12-1pm: Maunalua
2-3pm: Touch of Gold
4-5pm: Taimane Gardner

Main Stage (Makai-‘Ewa parking lot near Sears)
5:00-5:30: Anita Hall
5:35-6:05: Hoku Zuttermeister
6:10-6:40pm: Natalie A Kamauu
6:45-7:15pm: BET
7:20-7:50pm: Pali
7:55-8:30pm: Manoa DNA

And on Sunday, July 5

Centerstage
12-12:45pm: Aloha Monday Band
1:15-2pm: Peter Apo and the Rainbow Nation Band

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Maunalua Bay is holding their 2nd annual 4th of July festivities from 2-9 pm on the 4th with music by... Maunalua!
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The free Summer Concert Series at Pilila’au Army Rec. Center continues on July 4 with Darren Benitez performing from 7-10 pm. The Center is located at 85-010 Army Street in Waianae.



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Schofield Barracks - The public is invited to the 38th annual Fourth of July Spectacular on Schofield Barracks' Sills field. This is an all-day event which begins at 8 am (the fireworks start at 8:30 p.m.). The band Kansas will perform. Please see this article for important info.
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Kailua has the only 4th of July parade on O’ahu. The parade begins at 10 a.m. starting at Kainalu Elementary School and continuing on Kainalu to Kailua District Park. This year's Grand Marshal is Wally Amos, who has promised a Kazoo Band and a supply of his favorite cookies along the route. The parade will have marching bands, veterans from the armed forces, clowns and more.

A tradition in Kailua since 1948, the Annual 4th of July fireworks display had been cancelled this year. However, a group of local citizens pulled together and, with the help of local media, in just two weeks raised enough money from local businesses, the community, and supporters as far away as Germany, Japan and mainland locales such as New York, North Carolina, Maryland, California, and Oregon to put on an even bigger and better show!

The air show (stunt flying show) begins at 6 pm. The Fireworks show begins at 8 pm.
The best places to watch the fireworks: on the beach - Lanikai to Kalaheo, Kalama Beach Park or at Kailua Beach Park. (Parking will be available at Lanikai Elementary this year.)
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Turtle Bay will have a celebration for guests and locals alike on the west end lawn beginning at 3 pm. There will be games, food, booths, fireworks, etc.
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Events on neighbor islands:

MAUI

July 4th Fireworks in Lahaina – Starting at 5pm, Lahaina will begin celebrating with a free concert followed by a waterfront fireworks display at 8pm. You can see the fireworks free of charge from the waterfront.
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Trilogy (a tour boat company) will have a special July 4th fireworks excursion, with dinner. Space is limited, so reserve now!
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The Pacific Whale Foundation has several special 4th of July cruises as well. You will be able to view the fireworks displays from either cruise.
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The 44th Annual Makawao Paniolo Parade also takes place on July 4th, from 9 AM to 10 AM. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Statehood.”

KAUAI

Slack key artist Cindy Combs will be performing on July 3 at 05:30 PM at the Hanapepe Cafe in Hanapepe.
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The 20th Annual Concert in the Sky, featuring music by HAPA, will take place beginning at 4 pm at Vidinha Soccer Field in Lihue. There will be games, food, live entertainment and fireworks. (Please note: This event is a fundraiser for Kauai Hospice, so an entrance fee is required.)

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Kekaha (on Kauai’s west side) will host a free Independence Day celebration beginning July 3 at 5 pm and resuming at 6 pm on July 4. There will be games, crafts, food booths, cultural displays, live entertainment and music, and a fireworks display in the sky on the west side of Kauai. Free.
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The Kaua‘i Museum will host ‘Ohana Saturday on July 4. There will be special presentations, and admission is free for the whole family. Call (808) 245-6931 for more information.

BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII

The Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast is hosting a number of events on July 4, including the Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race & 4th of July Extravaganza –a great line up of events all day on July 4th. They’ll have games, bands, the rubber duckie race, and fireworks set to live music.
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The Rotary Club of Kona presents the 14th Annual Kailua-Kona Independence Day Parade on July 4th starting at 5:30 p.m.
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The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows on the Kohala Coast hosts the 20th annual Turtle Independence Day celebration on July 4th from 10:30 am until noon. This annual event features the release of young honu (sea turtles) into the wild. (The honu are received from Seal Life Park on O’ahu, and are raised in the saltwater ponds of the hotel. They are cared for until they grow to a size and weight that are deemed appropriate for release into the wild. This release occurs every July 4th at the ocean’s edge fronting the hotel.) There will be live entertainment, an educational display about green sea turtles, and a barbeque.
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Mailani Makainai’s (Keahiwai, MighTy J) long-awaited debut solo album (“Mailani”) dropped yesterday. (YAAAAY! Oh, kala mai – little editorial comment there…) The album consists of Hawaiian standards and several original compositions in both Hawaiian and English. Mailani has appeared several times on Pakele Live! (with Mighty J band mate Jenn Wright), but for those who missed those appearances, here’s video of her appearance last week on KGMB9‘s “Sunrise.” And for a review of “Mailani,” see Billy V’s recent article!
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Hawai'i Volcanoes' 29th Annual Cultural Festival is set for July 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be held on the lawn fronting Kilauea Military Camp on Crater Rim Drive. The festival and park entrance are free.

This year's theme is "E Ola ka Wahine o Halema'uma'u, Pele Lives." For many native Hawaiians, Halema'uma'u crater is the sacred home of Pele, deity of volcanoes. Located at the summit of Kilauea volcano, about two miles from the festival grounds, Halema'uma'u has been in eruption since March 2008.
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Utah readers – did you know about the Hawaiian Cultural Center in Midvale? There are hula classes for all ages (with Kumu Hula Kawika Alfiche and student teachers), a library of books, CDs, and DVDs, a small store, and cultural activities of all kinds.
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Seattle area readers:

From the “Holoholo Northwest” blog of Uncle Danny (formerly of the Northwest Hawaii Times):

“They call it “Da Spam Jam” and it happens at the Kona Kitchen Restaurant in Seattle the second Saturday morning of each month….it’s a gathering of musicians who love to play Hawaiian music! They gather around 9 a.m. and eat breakfast (eggs ovah easy wit Spam and Rice is a favorite but if you real hungry, get the Kona Kitchen Hawaiian style fried rice with eggs and a side of Portagee sausage…auwe broke da mouth ono plus enough left ovah to take home fo lunch) and the musicians kanikapila until noon or so! Drop by, bring your musical instrument if you like and jam too! Good fun music and great food!”
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And finally, I found this article about Makana, with a nice explanation of slack key (details re “how it’s done”), and pictures of Makana playing in a subway station in New York City!
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Have safe and happy 4th, everyone!

E malama pono a hui hou!